It's almost that time of year when gamers around the world unite in one big season of spending and game playing. Or spending and never playing. With summer time now officially upon us, the Steam Summer Sale is on the horizon, which means lots of games will be available for big discounts all across the Steam Store. Steam have gotten a lot of flak over DRM issues recently, but they're sure to win back a lot of that lost favour through the Summer Sale.

So with only a few weeks to go until the sale is typically up and running, we here at GameGrin thought we'd take a moment to point out some of the best games to look out for this time around. We chose based on likeliness of a big discount as well as games that will probably be reduced due to an oncoming sequels/expansions. Of course, there are also some simply great games that should be picked up regardless of the discount.

Portal 2

Valve's own Portal 2 was a hit when it released a couple of years back, and it still one of the best examples of modern puzzle gaming. Considering Valve put the original Portal up for free in the past, we wouldn't be surprised to see the same thing happen with the sequel this year. If not, then the practically guaranteed huge discount is something any gamer should take advantage of if you haven't played Portal 2 already.

The Walking Dead

The best example of episodic gaming in history is now available in full format so you can play it all in one (if that's more your style). So the Steam Summer Sale is an excellent opportunity to pick this one up if you haven't already. With the 400 Days DLC coming soon, expect TellTale to offer a big discount on the whole package to entice new fans. This is one of those games where those who are not invested in the franchise don't follow the game. The Walking Dead, however, is an example of truly excellent video game storytelling, so should appeal to any gamer out there.

Crusader Kings II

This one may not appeal to everyone at first glance; the complexity attributed to the grand strategy genre is often off putting for a lot of folks. The irony, however, is that once you understand the basic principles of grand strategy gaming, Crusader Kings II (and indeed any other Paradox GS game) is wonderfully simple. For those who've sunk hundreds of hours into the game they'll tell you it's one of the best experiences that you can find that's exclusive to PC. The other great thing about CKII is that Paradox have continued to support it years after release with great new regular content. What makes this so enticing for the sale, therefore, is that you're sure to see the whole CKII collection on offer including all the DLC. Which is a bargain worth killing off siblings for...if you want to get in the mood of the game.

Arma II: Combined Operations/Day Z mod

The internet sensation may have worn a little dry, but the Day Z mod is still great fun. While Dean Hall is now working on the full Day Z game, the mod is still lovingly maintained and played regularly by fans. Of course, while the mod itself is free, you'll still need Arma II and the Operation Arrowhead expansion to play it. Due to the success of the mod, it's been difficult to get hold of the game for a decent price. This year's Summer Sale, however, is likely to see the biggest drop in price yet, so should be an opportune time to finally jump into the wacky world of Day Z.

Metro: Last Light

We wouldn't be surprised to see Metro: Last Light as one of the headline offers this year. Despite being released only a few weeks back, the game has a strong PC following and is arguably at home on the platform. As one of the few big titles released this summer time (and with The Last of Us exclusive to PS3), it'll be one of the few big new games to get in the sale, although perhaps the discount won't be as impressive as with older titles. It's a great game with a lot of heritage on PC, however, so keep your eye out.

Call of Juarez: Gunslinger

For a bit of compulsive fun this summer, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger is probably the best answer to your itchy trigger finger. Certainly one of the better surprises of the year so far and a great short burst of fun. Considering it's already available for a nice cheap price, the inevitable discount is just a bonus. Small, but fun, games like this were what Steam was built on, so expect to see Gunslinger supported in the Summer Sale.

Surgeon Simulator 2013

A YouTube hit that's hilarious to play with friends (locally this time). Brilliant indie games like this always headline the Summer Sale, often as a bundle. Surgeon Simulator 2013 is arguably the most original game on Steam at the moment, and already available for a low price. With the Team Fortress 2 content recently added, expect to see this with a healthy discount. If you've yet to see any of the videos displaying this ridiculous game, be sure to check them out. Then you'll only have to wait a few weeks to pick it up for cheap.

Far Cry 3 & Blood Dragon

Speaking of ridiculousness; the acclaimed standalone to the already ludicrous Far Cry 3, Blood Dragon, is sure to receive a decent price drop alongside the original title. For those who like a little nostalgia and want the Duke Nukem-esque experience without actually playing the awful Duke Nukem Forever, then Blood Dragon is a great option. We wouldn't be surprised to see a bundle with both the FC3 games for cheap, which is a highly recommended offer, particularly for FPS fans.

Borderlands 2

Arguably one of the biggest releases of 2012, Borderlands 2 not only received critical acclaim but also sold a considerable amount of copies in its opportune release spot. Considering this, expect to see the game fully backed in this years' Summer Sale. 2K have proven to be one of the best publishers for Steam bargains over the years, and with the popular game varying in price wildly over the past year, I'd expect to see a headline 75% discount on this one. Once again, an offer that shouldn't be ignored, especially if a DLC collection is involved.

Of course, every gamer has their own tastes and favourites, so will probably have their eye on certain titles throughout the sale. All of these games come highly recommended from us here at GameGrin, so if you want to get into the Summer Sale mood then they're a good place to start. Other titles to look out for include:

I have still to play most of the games I bought in last years Summer Sale. I'd like to expand my collection of indies though, so I'll have my eye on them. Would also love to see a special discount on Rome II pre-orders - but I doubt that will happen.